ABSTRACT
As with all other types of change, it is no use trying to impose plain language on staff who are not convinced of its merits. Most people have views on what is ‘good’ and what is ‘bad’ English, and many are quick to voice their own views and to try to impose them on others. But views alone, however sound and well-intentioned, are unlikely to convince people to use plain language. Fortunately, there is an increasing body of anecdotal and research evidence showing that plain language benefits both the writer/speaker (and employing organisation) and the reader/ listener. This is useful as a starting point. You can significantly reinforce this with evidence that plain language improves things in your own organisation.
